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It is with humble gratitude that I am writing to thank so many people who supported me in representing The Santa Fund of the Greater Lakes Region at the sixth annual Dancing with the Stars.

What an amazing experience to compete and raise money with some of the community's most dedicated volunteers. I would first like to thank Laura Brusseau and her partner Ashley Halsey for organizing this huge event! A big congratulations to all of the dancers, who I can truly say deserve so much applause for getting out there, being brave and dancing in front of over 400 people. Thank you to my partner, Katie Laroche of Dancing Feet Studios for her time, energy, and patience. There have been so many people — friends, family, businesses who have supported me in this endeavor and I am beyond grateful for their kindness and generosity, and belief in this cause.

I would also like to give a special thank you to the incredible people in our downtown neighborhood for supporting me in this event: John Moriarty, MC Cycle, Daub's Cobbler Shop, All My Life Jewelers, Ian Raymond Photography, Grace Capital Church, Wayfarer Coffee Roasters, Greenlaw's Music, Patrick Wood.

There are no words to express my appreciation. I am honored to have been a part of an event that will help so many people in need. All donations big and small were so greatly appreciated by me and the gracious volunteers of the Santa Fund Board.

In a world full of so much sadness and tragedy, I am comforted knowing that we are doing what we can to make our tiny corner of it better for so many. "No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted." — Aesop

With gratitude on behalf of myself, my loving family, my extended Santa Fund Family, and the children of the Lakes Region.

Last Wednesday was Veterans Day, a time to reflect on the tremendous sacrifices that generations of military men and women have made for us. And while we paused to honor the men and women who served our country, I want everyone to remember that honoring our veterans shouldn't stop after Veterans Day.

Part of our commitment to our veterans is making sure they have access to the health care and benefits they have rightfully earned. Post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental illnesses are on the rise among our veteran population. Nearly 20 percent of veterans returning home from Iraq or Afghanistan will struggle with PTSD, and every day 22 veterans commit suicide.

Congress is finally starting to pay attention. But we still aren't doing enough to help them. At the beginning of this year, our senator, Kelly Ayotte, helped pass a law that will improve veteran suicide prevention programs and treatment. Senator Ayotte has been working on mental health issues for a long time, but she also understands the importance of tailoring mental health care for our veterans. It's clear that Sen. Ayotte cares deeply about finding solutions for our veterans and supporting those who are struggling. She's working to ensure that the VA is always looking out for veterans' needs, not just its own bureaucratic interests.

Sen. Ayotte is also a supporter of Liberty House, an organization in Manchester that provides substance-free housing for veterans transitioning out of homelessness. As we face growing security threats around the world, she recognizes that it is more important than ever that we ensure our servicemen and women have the equipment and support they need to keep us safe.

In the upcoming election Maggie Hassan has announced that she will challenge Sen. Ayotte in a contest that could very well determine control of the U.S. Senate.